CW Camping, Clarksburg, MD

For Maryland's outdoor enthusiasts, CW Camping within the expansive Little Bennett Regional Park in Clarksburg offers a unique and highly sought-after primitive camping experience. Unlike the park's main campground with its varied accommodations, CW Camping is specifically designed for those who arrive by foot or bike, emphasizing a deeper connection with nature and the trail. It's a testament to the diverse recreational opportunities available right here in Montgomery County, providing a tranquil and secluded spot for adventurers to rest and recharge. This distinction makes CW Camping a particular draw for hikers, cyclists, and bikepackers looking for an authentic, no-frills overnight stay along their journey.

Little Bennett Regional Park itself is a gem within the Montgomery County Parks system, spanning an impressive 3,700 acres of forests and meadows. It boasts over 25 miles of natural surface trails, making it a paradise for those who love to explore on foot, mountain bike, or horseback. CW Camping, nestled within this vast natural area, capitalizes on the park's serene environment, offering a more rustic alternative to the established drive-in campsites. The emphasis here is on self-sufficiency and immersion in the natural surroundings, a perfect fit for Marylanders seeking an active escape from urban life. Understanding that this site requires a hike or bike in, and that reservations are essential, sets expectations for a rewarding, prepared adventure.

Location and Accessibility

CW Camping is situated within the vast expanse of Little Bennett Regional Park, located in Clarksburg, MD 20871, USA. Its precise location is specifically designed to be a hike-in or bike-in campsite, setting it apart from typical drive-up campgrounds. This means direct vehicle access to the campsite itself is not available, enhancing its primitive and secluded nature.

As noted by a reviewer, CW Camping is approximately one mile from the nearest parking lot or access point. This accessibility by trail makes it an ideal stop for those traversing the extensive trail system of Little Bennett Regional Park or for bikepackers exploring the wider Montgomery County area. Little Bennett Regional Park is easily accessible from major roadways in Maryland, including I-270, making it a convenient destination for residents from across the state.

Once within Little Bennett Regional Park, signage and trail maps guide adventurers to CW Camping. While the "no running water" aspect emphasizes its primitive nature, the accessibility to nearby trails means campers can easily connect to the wider park system and potentially access other facilities or points of interest within the park during their stay. The surrounding Clarksburg area also offers essential services such as grocery stores, gas stations, and dining options within a reasonable distance by car, providing convenient resupply points before or after a hike or bike into the campsite. This blend of remote tranquility with relative proximity to necessary amenities makes CW Camping a practical and appealing choice for Marylanders seeking an immersive outdoor experience.

Services Offered

Designated Tent Sites: CW Camping provides dedicated spaces for pitching tents, ensuring organized and safe camping.
Large Benches: The campsite is equipped with large benches, offering comfortable seating areas for campers.
Multiple Fire Rings: Several fire rings are available, allowing campers to have campfires safely for warmth and cooking (check for any burn bans before lighting).
Picnic Tables: A few picnic tables are provided, offering surfaces for meal preparation and dining.
Chemical Toilet (Privy): A chemical toilet is located next to the trail for sanitation needs, a common amenity in primitive campsites.
No Running Water: It is important to note that this campsite does NOT have running water. Campers must bring all their own potable water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.
Hike-in/Bike-in Access: Specifically designed for campers arriving by foot or bicycle, supporting active outdoor pursuits.
Reservation System: Reservations are managed through the Active Montgomery website, requiring booking at least three days in advance.

Features / Highlights

Hike/Bike-In Accessibility: Its primary distinguishing feature, offering a truly immersive experience for those who prefer self-propelled travel and a more secluded campsite away from vehicle noise.
Primitive Camping Experience: Appeals to campers seeking a basic, rustic outdoor adventure without the amenities of a full-service campground.
Large Campsite: Described as a "HUGE hike/bike-in campsite," suggesting ample space for multiple tents and potentially larger groups (within park regulations).
Secluded Location: Being separate from the main Little Bennett campground provides greater tranquility and a deeper connection to the natural environment.
Essential Amenities: Provides necessary basics like fire rings, picnic tables, and a chemical toilet, fulfilling core camping needs.
Advance Reservation System: The ability to reserve online via Active Montgomery ensures a confirmed spot, which is a significant convenience for planned trips.
Flexible Booking: Unlike the main campground's typical two-night minimum, CW Camping allows for a one-night minimum stay, offering flexibility for shorter adventures.
Within Little Bennett Regional Park: Access to over 25 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing within one of Montgomery County's largest natural areas.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a designated primitive campsite within a regional park managed by Montgomery Parks, CW Camping does not typically offer traditional "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense. The primary "offer" and value proposition for CW Camping is its accessible, low-cost, and secluded primitive camping experience.

Key benefits that serve as its intrinsic "promotions" include:

Affordable Camping: Being a primitive site within a public park, the fees for CW Camping are generally very reasonable, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious Marylanders looking for an outdoor escape.
One-Night Minimum Stay: Unlike many campgrounds that require a two-night minimum, CW Camping's one-night minimum offers significant flexibility for shorter trips, spontaneous adventures, or as a convenient stopover for long-distance hikers and bikers.
Advance Online Reservations: The ability to book through the Active Montgomery website (with a 3-day advance booking requirement) is a valuable feature, allowing campers to secure their spot and plan their trip with certainty, which is a significant convenience.
Seclusion and Nature Immersion: The hike-in/bike-in only access naturally "promotes" a more peaceful and wilder camping experience, appealing to those who actively seek solitude and a deeper connection with nature away from vehicle noise and crowds.

Any specific updates or changes regarding fees or booking policies would be communicated directly through the Montgomery Parks official website or the Active Montgomery reservation portal. It is always recommended to check these official sources for the most current information regarding CW Camping.

Contact Information

For reservations and detailed information about CW Camping within Little Bennett Regional Park, the primary method for inquiries and booking is through the official channels of Montgomery Parks.

Address: CW Camping is located within Little Bennett Regional Park, Clarksburg, MD 20871, USA. (Note: This is the park's general address; direct vehicle access to the campsite is not available).
Reservations: All reservations for CW Camping must be made online via the Active Montgomery website. It is crucial to book at least three days in advance.
General Park Information Phone: For general inquiries about Little Bennett Regional Park and its facilities, you can contact Montgomery Parks. While a direct phone number for CW Camping itself isn't provided, the main park office or campground office can assist with general questions. For Little Bennett Campground, the phone number is often listed as (301) 528-3440, though it's best to confirm this on the Montgomery Parks website.

It is highly recommended that prospective campers check the official Montgomery Parks website for Little Bennett Regional Park and the Active Montgomery reservation portal for the most current information regarding campsite availability, rules, and any alerts regarding park conditions or water availability before planning their trip.

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

For Maryland locals, particularly those residing in Montgomery County and the surrounding areas, CW Camping at Little Bennett Regional Park offers an exceptionally suitable and enriching outdoor experience. Its primary appeal lies in its unique "hike-in/bike-in" nature, providing an immediate sense of adventure and seclusion that's often hard to find so close to populated areas. For active Marylanders, this means a chance to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in nature, whether for a challenging bikepacking trip or a peaceful hiking escape, all within a convenient drive from home.

The flexibility of a one-night minimum stay is a significant advantage for locals with busy schedules. It allows for spontaneous weekend adventures or a quick midweek reset without the commitment of a longer trip. The ability to reserve a spot online through Active Montgomery, even with the three-day advance requirement, provides a level of certainty and ease of planning that is much appreciated by those trying to fit outdoor activities into their lives.

Furthermore, being located within Little Bennett Regional Park itself is a major draw. This expansive park offers a vast network of over 25 miles of trails, providing endless opportunities for exploration right outside your tent flap. For Maryland residents who appreciate nature, exercise, and the tranquility of the outdoors, CW Camping serves as an ideal base camp. It's a place where you can experience primitive camping, enjoy campfires under the stars, and wake up to the sounds of nature, all within a short distance of home. It's an invitation for locals to embrace a genuine outdoor adventure without needing to travel far, making it a perfect fit for a memorable Maryland experience.